Why is Derek Dieter driving around South Bend distributing books to kids from out of a police squad car? According to Officer Dieter, it isn’t just about getting kids excited about reading—it’s also to improve relationships with kids by having positive interactions with them and build trust in the community.

From the WNDU.com article: “The earlier you can build a rapport, the longer lasting relationship you’ll have on a positive note,” he said. “It’s very hard to come to a kid when he’s maybe in middle school and high school and try to tell him that.”

Better World Books and St. Joseph County Public Library supply the books for the program—in fact, the pickup we donated last week was 750 books. Thanks to your support, we make a business out of finding new homes for books, and we think this is a pretty good place for them to go!

One Comment

Re:SUSAN BRANCH visit 9/9/13. My family is planning a trip to Goshen for her FINE ROMANCE book signing. Do I need a ticket or a sign-up?
I cannot find anything about it on this web site.
Thanks very kindly, Chrissy Thrower
PS we are so excited for this!